How to Make Western Lamp Shades

Learning how to make western lamp shades from any lampshade is all about figuring out what kind of mood you are trying to create. You can create this custom-lighting touch whether you are going for a classic rodeo themed look or a more modern, romantic version of the Old West. Not only is this a great and easy way to incorporate a cowboy theme into your home, but they are also the perfect gifts for the cowboy or cowgirl lover in your life.

Things You'll Need

• Section 1 Classic Rodeo Look: Lamp shade in any color Rub-on prints of a cowboy/cowgirl/horse scene Twisted rope trim (enough for top and bottom edge) Rodeo charms Hot glue gun/sticks Scissors Section 2 Romantic Old West Style: White lamp shade Scissors Hot glue gun/sticks Black fringe trim (preferably leather material) Stencil/pattern or black silhouette cutout Black fabric/paper (for use with stencil/pattern)

Instructions

Classic Rodeo Look

1. Choose a lampshade of any color that fits your decorating scheme.

2. Buy a fabric rub-on transfer, depicting a classic cowboy/cowgirl scene. This could be bull riding, herding, campfire songs, a woman and her horse or whatever fits best with your decor. Also buy rope trim and a few small metal Old West charms, such as horseshoes or spurs. The trick on how to make Western lamp shades is all in the details, so choose ones that reflect the theme you want to convey. You will also need a hot glue gun and extra glue sticks.

3. Put it all together by putting the rub-on transfer or decal, according to the product instructions, onto your lampshade. If you have chosen a few of them, make sure to lay them out before making anything permanent.

4. Hot glue the rope trim around the top and bottom of the lampshade. Make sure the ends meet at the back of the project.

5. Add charms to random places around the transfer(s) or decal(s) by trying a few different layouts and then hot gluing the finishing touches in place.

Modern Romantic Old West Style

1. Find a sheer white lampshade. The trick on how to make a western lamp shade in a modern romantic Old West style is start with something simple and clean.

2. Buy a black silhouette cut out. This could be just the heads of a cowboy and cowgirl or the shadow of them kissing under the stars by their horses. If you can't find one that you like, buy some black material or paper and check out the stencil department.. While you're there, you'll need clear tape or clear fabric glue and black fringed trim (preferably in a leather or leather-like material). Also purchase a hot glue gun and extra glue sticks.

3. Cut out your shapes and/or trim them if necessary. Place them on the inside of the lampshade. Secure with a little clear tape or glue.

4. Glue the fringe trim all around the bottom of the lampshade and around the top if you like the look of it after holding it up to see. This technique on how to make western lamp shades is sure to add a contemporary twist to a classic style.